The defending champions surrendered their crown in Rabat on Monday night but won the admiration of many around the world
Many football fans have reacted to the Super Falcons’ spirited performance in their semifinal clash against Morocco at the ongoing 2022 Women Africa Cup of Nations.
Morocco claimed a historic 5-4 victory on penalties over nine-woman Nigeria after both teams played out a thrilling 1-1 draw after extra time.
While the Atlas Lionesses advanced to their first-ever WAFCON final, it was the Falcons who won the admiration of countless spectators the world over with their dogged display.
The dethroned champions were reduced to ten women shortly after the break when the referee showed Halimatu Ayinde a straight red card after a var review.
Still, the Super Falcons took the lead in the 62nd minute courtesy of a Yasmine Mrabet own goal.
The hosts nation responded brilliantly four minutes later, Sanaa Mssoudy knocking the equaliser past goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie.
Nigeria’s night went from bad to worse in the 71st minute as star forward Rasheedat Ajibade also received her marching orders.
Reduced to nine women, the Falcons defended valiantly, forcing the tie into extra time and penalties.
They could have stolen victory at the death but substitute Gift Monday watched her fine strike crash off the crossbar in the 111th minute.
Morocco were successful with all their spot-kicks, but Nigerian forward Ifeoma Onumonu had her effort saved. Still, Falcons goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie was named the woman of the match for making several stunning saves.
Several fans have taken to Twitter to laud the Super Falcons’ brave showing in the face of massive odds.
Fina Napoleon wrote: “Take a bow my Queens. It was a spirited performance. Played 23 minutes with 10 women and 50 minutes with 9, no team, absolutely no team could have held on, but you did it. This is a super falcons appreciation tweet. QUEENS I STAN.”
Nigeria will face Zambia in the third place match on Sunday, while Morocco will battle South Africa for the championship crown.
